Sheffield blood donors thanked for saving lives

Blood donors who have each donated 100 pints have been recognised for their life saving efforts.

The six donors were presented with certificates by NHS Blood and Transplant at a ceremony held at Wortley Hall in Sheffield.

Each blood donation can save the lives of up to three people.

Out of the three per cent of the eligible population who give blood, just one per cent achieves 100 donations.

Blood and organ recipient, David Marshall, aged 42, from Sheffield, who spoke at the ceremony, was diagnosed with diabetes when he was seven.

In his early 30s his kidneys started to fail and he had a kidney transplant followed by 10 days of blood exchange transfusions to prevent his body rejecting the organ in December 2009.

He said: “Blood and organ donors are real life changers. They are true heroes in every sense.

“Receiving blood products is essential in maintaining a normal life and without the gifts I received my life would simply be unbearable.”

Amanda Eccles, Senior Marketing Coordinator at NHS Blood and Transplant, said: “Our loyal donors, such as those honoured at our Wortley Hall ceremony, are very special to us, which is why such an event gives us the opportunity to say a real heartfelt thanks.

“Stories like David’s remind us how important their donations have been. Between them, they have saved thousands of lives, and improved the lives of countless others who have required blood transfusions. These donors are an inspiration to us all.”